CIQ: Curiosity + Inquiry by Smith Institute for Applied Research at Johnson C. Smith University

ADVANCING STUDENTS, KNOWLEDGE, & COMMUNITY THROUGH RESEARCH

IN THIS ISSUE The Making of a Marine: Supporting our Veterans It Takes a Village: Sustainable Food Production Prepping Students for the BIG STAGE

PLUS Strength Under Stress: Polymer Research

CIQ CURIOSITY + INQUIRY VOLUME ONE NUMBER ONE

Fall 2018

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT OF JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY For over 150 years, Johnson C . Smith University has served as an anchor for the historic communities around it, and we intend to build upon that tradition . As the 14th president of our proud institution, I am committed to moving JCSU forward by fulfilling our promise to produce graduates who communicate effectively, think critically, work independently as well as collaboratively, and can demonstrate competence in their chosen field. The programs and research projects featured in this CIQ Curiosity+Inquiry magazine shine a spotlight on the core values we share as a University. I find the cover story, “Strength Under Stress: Polymer Research” especially inspiring as it offers a double meaning for our students who excel in arduous academic disciplines against all odds . I am also proud to call attention to Metropolitan College and our role as an HBCU leader in non-traditional and veterans education . The article entitled, “The Making of a Marine” chronicles the journey of a Marine’s endeavor to serve her country and attain a university degree . I personally believe that by providing unique and customized services to those who serve this country and others who face barriers to higher education, we bring honor to those who have come before us, and to posterity . My goals for the future include tapping into the rich ideas and knowledge-base of faculty and professional staff, and bringing together an even broader array of new initiatives while maintaining the mission of the University . I look forward to upholding the luster of our great institution while helping students realize their academic and career goals . In the spirit of our motto, “Sit Lux” or “Let There Be Light” through research! Clarence D. Armbrister, J.D.

Clarence D . Armbrister, J .D .

A WORD FROM OUR VICE PRESIDENT Welcome to the CIQ Curiosity+Inquiry research magazine . CIQ, pronounced as “seek,” showcases endeavors that are made possible through national partnerships with NASA, the National Science Foundation, the U .S . Department of Education, and the Department of Homeland Security, just to name a few . The contributions of state agencies such as the N .C . Department of Public Instruction and the State Library of North Carolina are also featured through stories of triumph in scholarship . JCSU’s research landscape is diverse . We inspire faculty, staff, and students to become critical thinkers and innovative problem solvers. Mae Jemison, the first African American woman astronaut in space said, “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity . It’s your place in the world; it’s your life .” In reflecting on the magnitude of what we are presenting, I feel extraordinarily proud to be a part of such a momentous undertaking . Like everything we do at JCSU, putting together CIQ was a team effort . We’re grateful to our contributors, who were essential to the magazine’s success . Diane Bowles, Ph.D.

Diane Bowles, Ph .D .

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FEATURED CONTENTS

Volume One, Number One , Fall 2018

10 18

SECTION KEY

Triangle graphics indicate sections for each story

Community-Based Participatory Action Research

Pipeline Engagement Programs: Recruitment, Retention, Graduation, and Post

Campus and Community Health & Self Care

Undergraduate Research

Policies that Work

Technology & Innovation

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

TABLE OF CONTENTS Get Fruved at JCSU: A National Comparison . . . . 4 Preconception Peer Educators Take Action . . . . . . 6 “CHIP”ing In for Healthy Behaviors . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Preventing Malaria through Research . . . . . . . . . . 8 The Rapture of Raptors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Poster Presentation Boot Camp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Golden Bulls Travel to China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Digital History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Strength Under Stress: Polymer Research . . . . . .14 Ready… Set… Make! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Cracking the Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 It Takes a Village: Sustainable Food Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Generations of Influence in Politics . . . . . . . . . . .18 Data Science: Solving the Future’s Problems . . .20 REU Program for Undergraduates . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Homeland Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 The Making of a Marine: Supporting our Veterans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Council of Elders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 By the Book . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Former Foster Youth at JCSU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Leading by Example: The Upward Bound Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Bridge to College . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 LSAMP: Diversification in STEM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Ronald E . McNair Program: Postbaccalaureate Blast Off . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Prepping Students for the BIG STAGE . . . . . . . . .28 CIQ Credits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Come Change the World with JCSU! . . . . . . . . . . .30 JCSU .edu

ON THE COVER

(L-r) students Kadadah Tillery and Taneva Bush discuss polymers with Dr . Tracy Brown-Fox . Curious about their work? Learn more on pages 14 and 15 .

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G E T FR UVED AT J CSU: JCSU’S WELLNESS REPORT CARD

At JCSU, the health and wellness of our students is the bedrock of our success . Students must be at their sharpest, both mentally and physically, to excel in the classroom . This means getting enough brain food and shut-eye, despite all the exciting on-campus activities! Through dedication to healthy living, our very own HealthPlex joined the exclusive ranks of “Get Fruved” funding recipients selected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. This research project is specifically tailored to improve fruit and vegetable intake, physical activity, sleep habits, and methods of positive stress management . Through our work, a comprehensive assessment of on-campus health was launched . After analyzing the data…drum roll please, our wellness report card indicates that we are performing above the national average in almost every health category . The HealthPlex director and guru of all things health, Jennifer Lee, led the research effort and feels that the program is invaluable . Ms . Lee said, “Understanding the perceptions of the students will help inform our practices on how to respond to what they need .”

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

A NATIONAL COMPARISON

Pictured: (L-r) Jennifer Lee discusses health data with student researcher Wesley Morgan . Fall 2018

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PRECONCEPTION PEER EDUCATORS TAKE ACTION JCSU has a long-standing history of encouraging peerto-peer communication about pressing health issues, including those related to preconception . Dr . Antonia Mead spearheads our current on-campus preconception health education campaign, and has effusive praise for students trained to empower their peers . Dr . Mead’s trainees initiate health discussions that are often thought of as taboo by placing signs throughout campus, distributing “emergency kits” with targeted health messages, and engaging their fellow students about safe sex . When speaking about the preconception peer educators cohort, Dr . Mead said, “They always go above and beyond, and use their experiences as an internship to list on their resumes . The skills they master are

transferable; students learn to get comfortable with leadership roles, program planning, fundraising, networking, and advocacy .” The Preconception Peer Educators (PPE) program was developed by the Office of Minority Health to foster health disparities reduction . Notably, JCSU has been selected each year since 2010 to participate in this effort . In fact, other colleges and universities that implement the program are directed to JCSU as the standard for success! Keep up the great work, peer educators!

Pictured: (L-r) Advised by Dr . Antonia Mead, Quaneisha Payne and Arthelia White provide preconception education . 6

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

“CH I P” I N G I N FO R H E ALTHY B EHAVI O RS During a student’s college career, their capacity to earn a degree can be derailed by a number of devastating health outcomes . JCSU’s students deserve the very best, which is why we took the bold step in 2016 to partner with Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to establish the College Health Improvement Project (CHIP) . The project is administered by JCSU’s director of student health services, Ms . Marian Jones, who plays a key role in the university’s provision of health care services and student education . Ms . Jones believes that everyone needs to “CHIP” in to eliminate ethnic health disparities, and that JCSU is well-positioned to assume the lead role in promoting healthy behaviors on-campus, and in Charlotte . Through partnerships with local nonprofit organizations, the CHIP project also delivers culturally appropriate classes, diagnostic testing, and counseling services . As you may have guessed, JCSU’s preconception peer educators jumped right into the fray to work alongside CHIP personnel for event coordination and a targeted marketing campaign! Since the project’s inception, CHIP has reached over 600 students and community members . Ms . Jones commented on the project’s success by saying, “It’s having a very positive impact, and our community is more conscious about their health and how they treat their bodies .”

Pictured: (Top) Jasmyn Jackson and (bottom) Myron Fogle receive health information from Marian Jones .

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PREVENTING MALARIA

THROUGH RESEARCH Malaria is one of the most fatal diseases on the planet, with more than 200 million cases reported each year that result in half a million deaths . In Africa, a child dies from this indiscriminate killer every minute . Despite devastating losses, there is hope . By researching the genome sequencing of parasites linked to the mosquito-borne disease, world-class researchers like JCSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dr . Sabina Otienoburu and her collaborators at Oxford University and the Karolinska Institute are shedding light on how parasites become resistant to antimalarial drugs . Their innovative work has the potential to benefit millions across the globe.

Pictured: (Top) Mattie the Great Horned Owl, Bubo virginianus . (Bottom) Anopheles gambiae mosquito, a common carrier of malaria . (Right) Tiffany Taylor guiding undergraduate research with JCSU students (l-r) Brenda Montanez and Drew Emerson . 8

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

POSTER PRESENTATION BOOT CAMP Led and instructed by Tiffany Taylor, faculty and student research manager at Smith Institute for Applied Research, undergraduate researchers had the opportunity to participate in the 2018 Student Research Poster Boot Camp . The annual activity is a prime example of how JCSU equips students for graduate school and beyond .

THE RAPTURE

This year’s honored members included Anthony Drakeford, Brenda Montanez, and Drew Emerson . Mr . Drakeford focused on biomedical research, Ms . Montanez developed research linked to antimalarial treatment, and Mr . Emerson researched business trends in the music industry .

OF RAPTORS When Dr . Alexa von Dohlen isn’t in the laboratory dissecting parasites, she can be found providing her biology students with the knowledge and inspiration they need to pursue an advanced degree . Dr . von Dohlen is considered to be one of JCSU’s top researchers, and is a nationally-recognized parasitologist . Her innovative research, funded by the National Science Foundation, focuses on zoonotic parasites in birds of prey, which can terrifyingly be transferred between animals and humans . “Not many people work on raptors because they are a protected species,” Dr . von Dohlen says . “I can tell my students, you’re pioneers in this .”

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GOLDEN BULLS TRAVEL TO CHINA JCSU embraces global cultural immersion as a 21st century learning tool . We welcome exchange students to our campus and have participated in trips to Cape Verde, Cuba, Egypt, Israel, and Senegal . However, our most recognized sovereign partner in study abroad education is China . At JCSU, students, faculty, and staff have the world at their fingertips! Global experiences introduce new perspectives to our work, and help us build partnerships that extend across cultures and continents . Our most enduring international education project, the Center for American Culture and Race (CACR) at Guangdong Baiyun University, is funded by the Department of State and Andrew W . Mellon Foundation . Located in Guangzhou, China, Guangdong Baiyun University, shares the same 10

values in higher education that JCSU holds dear, making the Guangdong-JCSU partnership our most prized interdisciplinary collaboration! The CACR was selected as one of 16 American Culture Centers in China meant to introduce Chinese citizens to American culture, and ours was the only one that focused on race in the United States . The CACR offers CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

Pictured: JCSU faculty, staff, and students expand their horizons in China .

programming ranging from the arts and humanities to business and tech . Dr . Brian Jones, dean of the College of Arts and Letters at JCSU commented, “We’ve addressed topics like HBCUs, American slavery, social work, immigration, and migration .” Each year, students from JCSU, Queens University, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte travel to the CACR to enhance their own cultural competency and Mandarin language skills . Students selected spend nearly two weeks in Guangzhou, and have the opportunity to travel throughout other nearby provinces . Dr . Matthew DeForrest weighed in on these experiences by saying, “These exchanges are critical as JCSU continues to build our partnerships . They let us share the ideas and practices Fall 2018

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that benefit our students and faculty, and appreciate subtle cultural differences .” For those of you interested in joining the proud ranks of Golden Bulls, remember that the next person traveling abroad could be you!

DI G ITAL H ISTO RY The James B . Duke Memorial Library is bringing the history of the Historic West End to life by creating a digital interactive map with funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) . The map will expand the boundaries of how libraries can use mobile technology to bring visual history and users together . By combining historical photographs, newspaper articles, and oral histories, we will tell the stories of neighborhoods that make up the community around Johnson C . Smith University . It’s critical to secure the history of the Historic West End neighborhoods now, as community members face rising concerns linked to gentrification and social upheaval. Through the NEH-funded project we bring rich narratives to life, and preserve history for future generations . Mr . Lunsford says, “It’s an inspiring story, and I think this map provides a unique way to tell it so that other institutions will want to follow .”

UNC-Charlotte, UNC-Chapel Hill, the Levine Museum of the New South, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Planning Department, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Historic Landmarks Commission . The project uses a large archive of unseen photographs and negatives from the James G . Peeler Collection held at JCSU, and also utilizes material from other local archives . The map will be launched in February 2019 along with a physical exhibit on the history of the Historic West End that is being developed in partnership with the Arts and Science Council and the Museum of the New South . One of the outcomes of this project is the inception of a replicable model that other libraries can use to document the important histories of their neighborhoods .

Making broad impacts is a top priority for JCSU and the NEH . In an effort to maximize the project’s scope, we are collaborating with the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library,

Pictured: Brandon Lunsford curates JCSU’s archives at the James B . Duke Memorial Library . 12

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

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STRENGTH UNDER STRESS: POLYMER RESEARCH

Every day we are surrounded by complex chains of molecules called polymers . Poly-what? Polymers . You know, plastics . Let’s keep it simple . Polymers are large molecules made by chemically linking a series of smaller molecules, monomers, as building blocks . In a nutshell, they’re used to strengthen or enhance objects through their application. Polymers are used in clothing and shoes made from synthetic fibers, plastic bags, water bottles, the rubber in our tires, and the silicone tips of our earbuds . Knowing how polymers act when they are stretched, stressed, or subjected to temperature changes is critical to understanding how their applications affect our daily lives .

Resources provided by the National Science Foundation’s Targeted Infusion Projects will equip JCSU with a fully operational research institution-level organic chemistry lab that is furnished with a Thermal Analysis Instrumentation (TAI) suite . Drs . Tracy Brown-Fox and M . Todd Coolbaugh, assistant professors of chemistry at JCSU, and their undergraduate students, will engage in sophisticated research to understand the use of polymers for structural reinforcement, drug delivery, defense, and antimicrobial applications . Students will use the TAI suite, which will include advanced technology instrumentation, to research the development, characterization, and applications of synthetic and natural polymers . 14

With the upgraded instrumentation lab, upper-level research chemistry courses will allow students to advance research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills . As principal investigator, Dr . Brown-Fox plans to partner with surrounding polymer businesses for faculty and student training purposes, and collaborative ventures . There will also be a certificate program for students who meet a high level of proficiency in the TAI instrumentation suite. “Students are more likely to find employment in polymerrelated careers than other fields of chemistry,” said Dr. Brown-Fox . “JCSU is at the forefront of research and CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

practical application to make sure that our students have the educational foundation, business mindset, and technical skills in this area of chemistry . It’s important that we increase our competitiveness as a country, especially when taking into consideration that we live in a quickly evolving world . If we don’t develop these skills and applications, someone else will .”

our nation has to offer . The arch of U .S . competitiveness is long, but it bends towards HBCU competitiveness .”

As Johnathan M. Holifield, executive director of the White House Initiative on HBCUs, commented earlier this year, “U .S . competitiveness attaches to the best opportunities

Pictured: Magnified cellulose polymer (L-r) students Kadadah Tillery and Taneva Bush learning about polymer applications with Dr . Tracy Brown-Fox .

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RE ADY... SE T... M AKE! Want to design the next big thing? Enjoy experimenting with 3D printing? If you’re nodding your head, then making is in your blood! JCSU’s academic makerspace is a design and creation hub where students and community members can hone their technical skills for emerging industries . Earlier this year, JCSU won a competitive library grant from the State of North Carolina that will take our making to new heights! Led by Dr . Chantell McDowell, the project will create a culture of making and bolster economic outcomes in west Charlotte . Pictured above: Dr . Chantell McDowell takes JCSU making to the next level . Pictured below: Terik Tidwell (middle) advises students on the latest trends in tech innovation . Featured students include Zaira Jacome, Khrayia Savoy, Brenda Montanez, and Zubdiel Escalona .

CRACKI N G TH E CO DE In 2017, JCSU finalized a public-private partnership with the U .S . Department of Education, Kenan Charitable Trust, and Google to implement the Access-to-Innovation Initiative (A2I) . The A2I targets local minority students with the intention of embedding STEM education, workforce development, and high-growth entrepreneurship into everyday learning . Students receive exposure to coding and big data management while gaining a better understanding of real world applications . “This project represents the future of education . What we are doing is all about co-creation, impact, scalability and economic mobility,” says Terik Tidwell, director of STEM innovation .

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

IT TAKES A VI LL AG E:

SUSTAINABLE FOOD PRODUCTION Managed by Dr . Philip Otienoburu, the Sustainability Village, which furthers Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) research is where organic fruits and vegetables are grown by JCSU students . Although food production has been at an alltime high, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re expecting an additional five-fold increase in the next year. The Sustainability Village was launched at the university in 2013 to address food insecurity in areas where residents have little access to healthy produce . The project provides an innovative experience for students by combining academic coursework, service learning, and experiential education opportunities to enhance their understanding of community food systems .

Pictured: (L-r) Dr . Philip Otienoburu and the former First Lady of Zambia, Maureen Mwanawasa, tour JCSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s aquaponic garden at Sustainability Village .

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GENERATIONS OF Dr . Terza Lima-Neves’ approach to teaching and mentoring brings fresh insights to understanding politics and culture . As a professor of political science, she contends that students’ perceptions about global cultures are filtered through a narrow theoretical lens . She highlights that politics speak directly to the reality of any given culture . A native of the Republic of Cabo Verde, an island nation off the coast of West Africa, Dr . Lima-Neves inspires students to connect their own family history to what they’re learning in the classroom . In Cabo Verde, for example, women were key agents in the transportation of intelligence during the struggle for independence . “My students are clear that the personal is the professional for

me, that as an African woman my teaching pedagogy is in direct conversation with where I am from,” says Dr . LimaNeves . “Stories of my grandmother, who has no formal education but knows her Cabo Verdean Constitutional Rights and actively campaigns for her political party, or my great-aunt, a former combatant during the struggle against Portuguese colonial occupation and the country’s first female mayor, are all stories of African women stories of resilience, strength, and empowerment . It’s my story too .” Dr . Lima-Neves helped organize several events to reimagine the way we teach and learn about African cultures . This includes visits from the First Lady of Cabo

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

INFLUENCE IN POLITICS Verde and the former First Lady of Zambia, a talk with a Nobel Peace Prize laureate from Liberia, and service learning projects . As an example of one such service learning project, Dr . Lima-Neves partnered with the local No Backpack Day organization, that provided support for six students to travel with her to Cabo Verde in 2017 bearing 200 backpacks, school supplies, diapers, and personal care items for the country’s neediest citizens . In preparation for the trip, Dr . Lima-Neves taught a semesterlong course on Cabo Verdean politics and culture .

evident, as JCSU political science alumni are actively making changes in the world . South African native Lerato Motaung has returned home and works for Harvard University’s Johannesburg Campus, and Brianna Robinson is pursuing an advanced degree at Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism at the University of Southern California .

By connecting her family’s political legacy and curriculum, Dr . Lima-Neves hopes to motivate students to become global leaders and problem solvers . The impact is already

Pictured left: Dr . Terza Lima-Neves, with her grandmother, Maria Rosario Silver, and students Taliah Gilliam, Tatianna Staton, and LaRon Rhone examining Cape Verde’s Declaration of Independence . Pictured above: (L-r) Dr . Terza Lima-Neves meets with the former First Lady of Zambia, Maureen Mwanawasa . Fall 2018

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DATA SCI EN CE: SOLVING THE FUTURE’S PROBLEMS

A minor in data science is on the horizon at JCSU . Funded by the National Science Foundation, this project allows students to achieve core competencies in a growing discipline . There is an increasingly high demand for data literacy skills, which are essential for extracting meaningful information from large datasets . “IBM suggests the number of roles for all U .S . data professionals will reach 2 .7 million by the year 2020,” says Dr . Felesia Stukes, JCSU’s data science expert . Dr . Stukes maintains that developing the minor is critical for JCSU’s competitiveness with other STEM-focused institutions .

Pictured: Dr . Felesia Stukes

REU PROGRAM FOR UNDERGRADUATES

JCSU is working in partnership with Davidson College and UNC-Charlotte to pioneer undergraduate research focused on food security, affordable housing, and accessible healthcare . The project is part of the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Sites program, which bolsters participation in projects that are guided by faculty members . JCSU’s REU project will be a valuable connection between the University and community, with the collaborative research team identifying the root causes of social inequalities . JCSU students involved in this project are actively planning and conducting research that will be shared with academic and public audiences upon its completion . As part of their work, they are also engaging local policy makers and community leaders while coordinating with the Centers for Innovation and Entrepreneurship located at all three partnering institutions . The project will result in shared research among faculty, students, and community partners .

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

H O M EL AN D SECU RIT Y: THE COASTAL RESILIENCE CENTER EDUCATION PROJECT JCSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center of Excellence in Homeland Security equips students with the knowledge to manage natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes. In an effort to bolster minority representation in this field, JCSU is partnering with UNC-Chapel Hill and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement the Coastal Resilience Center Education Project . The project, administered by Dr . Ahmed Faik, offers customized interdisciplinary courses, applied research experiences, seminars, and collaborative summer camps about reducing coastal risks . This project expands on previous work with the DHS Coastal Hazards Center of Excellence and Jackson State University .

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Pictured: Students participate in coastal resilience research with Dr . Ahmed Faik .

THE MAKING OF A MARINE:

SUPPORTING OUR VETERANS Honor. Courage. Sacrifice. These are just a few words used to describe veterans who have risked it all to defend the freedoms we enjoy . JCSU is proud to welcome veterans to our campus, and has taken special care to tailor courses offered in Metropolitan College to fit the needs of heroes from all branches of the armed services . Much of this effort has been undertaken by Dr . Cheryl Curtis, who is our official veteran advocate and liaison . Under Dr . Curtis’ leadership, JCSU became nationally recognized as a military-friendly institution for the first time in its history. By adhering to the standards set forth by the U .S . Department of Education’s 8 Keys of Veterans’ Success, we’re ensuring that seamless transitions take place for veterans who enroll in classes . One of our very own veteran-students, Ms . Sameerah Williams, embodies everything that we’re proud of at JCSU, and as a country . Ms . Williams is a Marine veteran who will graduate with a degree in interdisciplinary studies and wants to continue serving future generations as a kindergarten teacher . She didn’t know that JCSU catered to veterans until her roommate mentioned our academic programs, which have small classes and emphasize individual attention . “Everyone has been very supportive and encouraging,” she says, “and I’m thankful I’ve been able to help on the veterans’ side and bring awareness to our presence on campus .”

Pictured: Sameerah Williams, a Marine veteran and student studying in JCSU’s Metropolitan College . 22

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CO U N CI L O F ELDERS JCSU’s foundation for success has been laid by visionaries for more than 150 years . The Council of Elders, a group of longtime leaders in JCSU’s surrounding community, continue to champion the values associated with empowerment and high achievement among minority students . Through their support and commitment to the University, generations of JCSU students have gone on to be leaders in business, education, and government . JCSU thanks the Council of Elders for their passion, and for upholding our legacy .

Pictured: (L-r) Nancy Stroud, Mattie Marshall, Bernetta Powell, and Judge Shirley Fulton standing in front of the mural at the Mosaic Village in west Charlotte .

BY TH E BO O K JCSU has been a constant through eras of change in its surrounding historic neighborhoods . Ten Men: Examining the Passion and Progress of Black Men on Charlotte’s Historic West Side is a collection of oral histories published by the university and told by ten dynamic individuals . These are men like JCSU alumni Charles Jones, long-time civil rights activist and former Freedom Rider, who recounts how JCSU students defiantly sat at lunch counters in Charlotte until they were served .

Ten Men is a powerful firsthand historical account, and provides a valuable record of the importance of black male leaders in the Charlotte community .

Pictured: Attorney Charles Jones Fall 2018

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Pictured: Patricia Newell (far right) poses with former foster youth (l-r) Taneva Bush and Katherine Bartholomew .

FO RM ER FOSTER YO UTH AT JCSU

Ms . Patricia Newell has devoted her life to inspiring former foster youth to recognize and achieve their full potential . At JCSU, Ms . Newell is responsible for implementing the acclaimed “Phasing Up” project, which targets youth who have aged out of foster care . Recent research suggests that less than 2% of former foster youth who enter college will graduate from a four-year liberal arts college . Ms . Newell refuses to conform to that statistic, as her Phasing Up project has produced a 77% graduation rate among all former foster youth who participated!

plans to attend the Medical University of South Carolina for Pediatric Anesthesiology . Katherine Bartholomew, who has spent most of her life in the foster care system, is a 2018 graduate of JCSU with a bachelor of social work degree . Katherine plans to devote her life to helping other youth in foster care . Ms . Newell says, “Along with a strong commitment from JCSU’s president, Clarence D . Armbrister, Phasing Up benefits from its focus on sustainable processes rather than short-term programs and initiatives .”

Phasing Up has no shortage of success stories . One of the program’s current stand out students, Taneva Bush, spent most of her childhood in foster care . She is now a senior at JCSU, with a double major in chemistry and biology, and

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LE ADI N G BY E X A M PLE:

THE UPWARD BOUND WAY

JCSU’s Upward Bound program, which has been spearheaded by Ms . Magdalyn Lowe-Smith since 1999, has affected the lives of more than 1,000 local high school students . Funded by the U .S . Department of Education, Upward Bound represents the pinnacle of success in providing access to higher education for students who come from modest upbringings, and have little knowledge of the processes associated with attending college . The Upward Bound program recruits students from West Charlotte, West Mecklenburg, and Garinger High Schools . One of the program’s objectives is to prepare students for the academic, social, and cultural experiences associated with college . Ms . Lowe-Smith has witnessed the program’s potential to cultivate a new generation of learners; in June 2018 there were ten local graduates of the program, three of whom were accepted at JCSU . Ms . Lowe-Smith values the potential that Upward Bound has to propel participants toward the next level of their educational journeys . According to Ms . Lowe-Smith, “Upward Bound works, and makes college a rule for high school students, not the exception .”

Pictured: Magdalyn Lowe-Smith paves the way for first-generation college students to succeed. Fall 2018

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B RI DG E TO CO LLEG E With the future on the horizon, the IMPACT project is getting our public school teachers and students ready for the dawn of a new age . By nurturing a STEM learning community, JCSU’s Dr . Dawn McNair is creating a bridge to college in collaboration with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools . Dr . McNair is one of JCSU’s leading researchers, and is widely recognized for her contributions to mathematics and revolutionary learning models . In partnership with the National Science Foundation, N .C . Department of Public Instruction, and private funders, IMPACT is building a cadre of elite teachers dedicated to improving college preparedness . Dr . McNair provides expert instruction to design classroom tasks incorporating real-world applications, in addition to theoretical knowledge . IMPACT is equipping public school students for college-level courses and tomorrow’s workforce .

Pictured: Dr . Dawn McNair enhances STEM learning outcomes through the IMPACT project .

LSA M P: DIVERSIFICATION IN STEM Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP), a National Science Foundation program, assists colleges in diversifying the nation’s STEM workforce by increasing the number of degrees among historically underrepresented populations . JCSU’s participation in the program is legendary, and derives much of its success from the efforts of Dr . Sunil Gupta and Mattie Marshall, who coordinate program activities . “LSAMP drives our finest Golden Bulls to graduation while helping them produce cutting-edge research,” said Dr. Gupta.

CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

RO NALD E . M CNAI R PRO G RA M :

POSTBACCALAUREATE BLASTOFF

Dr . Ronald E . McNair was a renowned American physicist and astronaut who lost his life aboard the Space Shuttle Challenger . Beginning in his early years, Dr . Ronald McNair’s poise, determination, and passion for equality in learning helped him soar to new heights . The U .S . Department of Education’s Ronald E . McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program, named in his honor, provides underrepresented students with effective preparation for postgraduate study . Included in the JCSU McNair program are sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have proven themselves through outstanding academic achievement . The program is interdisciplinary in that it engages high performing students in STEM disciplines, as well as those in the social sciences and humanities . Jonathan Smalls, who serves as the program’s director, weighed in by saying, “I’m delighted to serve as the director of the McNair Program . Our McNair Scholars are the cream of the crop . They are talented, highly motivated students and they make me proud every day .”

Pictured: Jonathan Smalls (standing) engages with students (l-r) Quenton Mills, Ashley Green, LaRon Rhone, Georgina Diaz, and Charles Langston from the Ronald E . McNair program .

Fall 2018

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PREPPING

STUDENTS

FOR

THE

B I G STAG E

In the fall of 2015, the University announced an accredited program for a bachelor’s degree in dance within the Department of Visual, Performing and Communication Arts . Dancers with degrees from JCSU have attended graduate schools to pursue master of fine arts in dance, and have accepted jobs with Carnival Cruise Lines, Disney, and even the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York . In its initial year, the dance program participated in the prestigious White Wave Dance Festival, which featured dance companies from all over the world . JCSU’s professor of dance, Jaclyn O’Toole, chose to use only members of the JCSU Repertory Dance Company to perform her original choreographic work “Eve .” 28

She says that her dance-focused research has transformed her approach to teaching: “I think as an educator, if you are genuinely in it for the students you’ll ask yourself what you missed as a student and how you can fill in those gaps. Dancers need more stage time, both on a national and international level .”

Pictured: Neja Ervin is a student in the Department of Visual, Performing and Communication Arts at JCSU . CIQ is a publication of the Division of GSPAR at JCSU

A PUBLICATION OF THE DIVISION OF GSPAR AT JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY Clarence D. Armbrister, J.D. President Diane Bowles, Ph.D. Vice President Division of Government Sponsored Programs and Research Editor in Chief & Publisher Diane Bowles, Ph.D. Senior Editors Ian Thompson Keisha Talbot Johnson Assistant Managing Editor Chettie Martin Contributing Writers Ian Thompson Brandon Lunsford Ron Stodghill Design & Creative Direction Heathir McElroy, DEZINZ Inc. Photography Jeff Cravotta, Cravotta Photography Candid photos provided by faculty, staff, and Shutterstock Other Contributors Division of Government Sponsored Programs and Research Office of Sponsored Programs Virginia Rowe-Anderson Ramon Fernandez Teri Taylor Xia “Anna” Wood Smith Institute for Applied Research Tara Bengle, Ph.D. Tiffany Taylor Margaret Watson Title III Program Donnett Johnson

The contents of this Division of Government Sponsored Programs and Research publication were developed in part with funds from the Title III-Part B, Strengthening HBCUs, award number P031B120555, P031B170039, and the Title III Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act (SAFRA), Award Number P031B150062, from the Department of Education. However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

Fall 2018

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CO M E CHAN G E TH E WO RLD WITH JCSU

Growing up just blocks away from JCSUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s campus where she attended college, Dorothy Counts-Scoggins is a trailblazer for civil rights. She was one of four black students to integrate all-white schools in Charlotte and remains a national inspiration to those who believe that education is a universal right. Like Dorothy Counts-Scoggins, YOU can change the world by joining the JCSU family. We challenge YOU to join our crusade for HBCU heritage, academic achievement, and a better future for everyone!

Dorothy Counts-Scoggins is a local icon and nationally recognized civil rights leader.

GSPAR IS HERE TO HELP YOU IN SCHOLARLY RESEARCH, COMMUNITY OUTREACH, AND CREATIVE ENDEAVORS!

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